Getting your kids cooperation

Remind your child about the fixed events before they happen. It is very useful to warn your child about bedtime or an activity 30 minutes and maybe 15 minutes beforehand. Don't nag but be positive and firm. Creating a routine for bedtime can help ease them through the process. Below is a list of things you can do to allow that transition to occur and calm your child so they are ready to sleep. It is also a great way to bond with your child.

• Reading together once they are in bed

• Allowing them to read in bed

• Listen to music

• Singing together

• Story telling

Different structure at your ex's home

It is not unusual that the structure and routine at each ex's home may be very different. Allowing some transition time when coming over to your home can help. During this time if their behavior is not within the rules you have at your home, then remind them of your rules. If after the transition time the behavior continues then give a consequence and follow through with it.

If you are on good terms with your ex, negotiate structure, routine and rules that are the same in both homes.

• Do not get drawn into a debate about the rights and wrong of each home's structure

• Do not say anything negative about your ex or his/her rules

• Be consistent and follow through